It’s no secret that Volvo is working on the next-generation XC90 and its electric version. We’ve heard different rumors about the name and specifications, but it looks like they’ll all be announced later this year. It will become the brand’s new flagship model and take an important place in the company’s electrification strategy.
Volvo CEO Jim Rowan recently confirmed to Autocar The XC90 electric successor will make its full debut in the last quarter of this year. It will arrive as a dedicated electric vehicle and will sit on a new bespoke platform that is not shared with other products in Volvo’s model lineup.
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“This is a very exciting time for us because it takes us to another realm – it is another building block towards the future. The model itself is a very important vehicle for us.” A Volvo spokesperson also added that “software defined,” the electric SUV is “a demonstration of our future and marks the start of a new era for safety, and the company.”
A leaked patent render from earlier this year features a zero-emissions SUV design and it looks like Volvo will be betting on a bold, futuristic-looking boxy engine. The overall shape and proportions won’t be a drastic change from the current XC90, but the pop-out door handles and a new look on the company’s traditional taillights will make a big difference.
There is some mystery surrounding the name of the new electric SUV from Sweden. The automaker filed a trademark application for the Embla name with the European Union Intellectual Property Office late last year, but there are also rumors that the model could receive the EXC90 moniker. Whatever the case, we’ll know everything before the end of the year.
As far as we know, this new electric SUV will only be a temporary flagship SUV for the brand as Volvo is reportedly also preparing a full-size XC100 (name not confirmed). It will be heavily inspired by the 2021 Recharge concept and will have a pure electric powertrain.
